If you're interested in playing a college sport, at the 8th grade level is the perfect time to start having those discussions with your parents and discussing what division you'd like to play for? There is a lot of research that you can do to find out exactly what is needed and when if you're looking to be a collegiate athlete.
One common myth is that you need to go to a big school to be recognized. There are many things that college recruiters look at. Listed below are a few of the things they are looking for:
-Leadership/Interviews with teachers/Coaches. An athlete that can help build a sustainable winning culture. A student athlete that can be a great classmate.
-Character Development. More and more they aren't just looking for someone who can put up points, but someone who's a good person and well rounded.
-Multi Sport athlete- building of alternative skill sets, often more athletic avoids injury and burn out.
NCAA Eligibility Center: Here you can create a profile. It's a great time to start collecting information, video and building authentic accolades.
NCAA Sport Specific
Recruiting Information